Have you settled on the big decision? That being, rather than aging at home, you’d like to spend the rest of your years in a senior living community. For many individuals, that’s a wise decision. Now, however, the question becomes, “Which community should I choose?” The choices of communities frequently referred to as “senior living” are many. Some of them include the following:
- Life plan community
- Continuing care retirement community
- Memory care community
- Assisted living community
- Independent living community
Consider your needs and you’ll be able to make a better decision as to which community is right for you. To assist you in your endeavor, we have some community-specific questions that you should ask yourself or consider.
Life Plan Community or CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community)
From skilled nursing and assisted living to independent living, a full continuum of senior care is available at these campus-like environments. What is right for you? Ask yourself these questions:
- Does your spouse require one type of senior living, but you need or want something different?
- For either you and/or your spouse, do you want to do all you can to avoid asking your children for assistance in the future?
- Do you need a community that’s going to be able to accommodate future health needs but also one that will meet your current independent, active agenda?
Memory Care Community
For adults with age-related dementia conditions and Alzheimer’s disease, memory care communities offer specialized assistance. Is it right for you or a loved one? Here are some things to consider, regarding the individual in question:
- To remain engaged in meaningful activities, is it a real struggle?
- Are there behaviors occurring that are difficult to manage like aggression, wandering, sundowner’s syndrome, etc.?
- For safety considerations, is around-the-clock supervision needed?
Assisted Living Community
Offering what seems to be an agreeable compromise, an assisted living community is preferred by numerous aging parents and their adult children. Ask these questions to see if it’s a good fit:
- Does isolation bother you?
- To maneuver outside the home or inside, has it become impossible or difficult due to mobility issues?
- Compare the cost of an assisted living community to the cost of daily home care expenses. Which is higher?
- Is the family caregiver experiencing their own health problems or becoming worn out?
- Is it difficult to prepare meals? Are all nutrition and dietary needs being met? Is the person losing weight?
- Have there been a series of falls or accidents?
- Are the person’s personal safety and care becoming an increasing concern? Is it becoming apparent that assistance is needed with daily living activities like dressing, bathing, etc.?
Independent Living Community
For reasons of socialization, convenience, and more, an independent living community is perfect for some older adults. Is it a good fit? Ask yourself the following:
- Are you able to, or do you intend to, maintain your active lifestyle?
- Can you manage your medications independently?
- When it comes to personal care needs, can you safely manage them?
- Are you an independent, active older adult?
Enjoy Your Golden Years Living in Style and Convenience
Aston Gardens At The Courtyards puts a wealth of support, activities, and amenities right at your doorstep so you can wake up inspired every morning. Aston Gardens At The Courtyards is specifically designed to make sure that all the wants and needs of today’s retired individuals are not only addressed but met. There are three distinct communities featured on our campus, and Memory Care is offered for those in need of it.
If you have questions or, even better, would like to schedule a tour, please contact us.
